Drivers warned of new charges for caravan use in coastal town coming in next year

A local authority has unveiled new parking plans which could see caravans face increased charges next year.

The proposal by East Suffolk Council looks to increase charges by five percent which could take effect from April 1, 2025.

The changes would impact fees at the Suffolk coastal site and would affect visitor mooring fees, stage use, storage costs and holidaymaker fees.

The changes are being reviewed by the Southwold Harbour Management Committee as part of their annual fee assessment for the 2025/26 fiscal year.

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However, business leases and fishing hut leases would be exempt from the increase, with these continuing to be negotiated separately.

The adjustments come as part of a broader strategy to ensure financial sustainability and maintain service quality at the popular coastal destination.

Under the new proposals, peak season campers with electric hook-up pitches would pay £50 per night, up from £48.25. Off-peak electric hook-up pitches would increase to £43 per night, while mid-season rates would rise to £49.

Standard pitches during peak season would cost £45, with mid-season rates at £44 and low season at £37 for two adults. Additional charges include £6 per night for electricity, £5 for extra adults, and £3 for children or seniors over 65.

Campers using awnings, gazebos, or canopies would face a £10 nightly charge. Single backpackers without vehicles would pay £18 per night, subject to the caravan site manager’s discretion upon arrival.

The site would also maintain services such as battery charging at £11 and dryer tokens at £2.50. The proposed increases come as the Consumer Price Index for September 2024 was projected at 2.3 per cent year-on-year.

Despite moderating inflation compared to previous years, the site continues to face rising operational costs, particularly in wages and maintenance. The committee reported that the five per cent increase is necessary to offset these growing expenses while maintaining service standards.

Without the proposed fee adjustments, officials warned there could be a risk of reduced service quality or the need for steeper price increases in the future.

The committee added that the increase has been structured to keep services affordable and accessible, ensuring adjustments don’t disproportionately affect specific groups.

Any cases of financial hardship will be reviewed individually to maintain fair access to the facilities.

The proposed fee changes will need approval from both the Harbour Management Committee and East Suffolk Council Cabinet before implementation.

If approved by the committee, the recommendations will be forwarded to the East Suffolk Council Cabinet for final decision. Legal implications have been reviewed, with officials confirming the proposed fee adjustments fall within the authority of both governing bodies.

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The proposed changes aim to generate additional revenue necessary to maintain high-quality services at the harbour and campsite. But the committee is considering alternative options, including a zero increase, but determined this would limit revenue growth.